It's a 21st-century paradox: Detroit enters 2014 in bankruptcy, the largest public case in U.S. history and facing $18 billion or more in debt. Yet the Motor City's resurgent auto industry is strong enough to host a show that by one estimate will generate nearly $400 million for the area's economy.

Since 1966, Capitol Coney Island has been a staple at the corner of West Bristol and Van Slyke roads, serving up Flint-style Coneys and fries for General Motors employees at the nearby assembly plant and any other hungry passersby.